COVID-19 has become an inescapable part of our reality. The virus was declared a global pandemic in March by the World Health Organization. With the coronavirus dominating the news cycle, it can be an overwhelming amount of information at times. Our team here at Healing Hands Chiropractic has made a guide to help the people of the Murfreesboro, Tennessee area stay safe during these trying times.
What is Coronavirus?
The coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, is actually a strain of a coronavirus. COVID-19 comes from a large family of coronaviruses that includes the common cold as well as more serious diseases. It is closely related to two other coronaviruses, SARS and MERS which made waves in the 2000s.
What separates COVID-19 from others in its family is how quickly and easily it can spread. Its high contagion rate is the reason why serious measures were needed to try and further prevent the spread of the virus. Some cases, especially in younger people, can show little to no symptoms but still be highly transmissible.
How Does It Spread?
COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes. It is believed to also live on surfaces for up to two whole weeks depending on the material and how often the surface is cleaned. It can spread easily among people that are in close contact.
As mentioned earlier, some patients have reported being asymptomatic. These means they are a carrier for a disease they don’t even know they have. This makes it much easier for the virus to spread from person to person.
How Can You Avoid Catching Coronavirus?
The last thing we want to do is become sick or worse, transmit the disease to someone in the at-risk demographic. While local state, county, and city governments are taking measures to prevent the spread of this virus, there is more you can do to help. Here are ways you can avoid COVID-19:
Avoid Large Gatherings
Certain areas have already implemented strict rules against large gatherings which can be punishable by fines or even arrest. Both the CDC and WHO highly recommended against any gatherings of over 10 people. The more people you are in contact with the more likely you are to either catch the virus or spread it if you unknowingly have it.
Keep A Solid Distance
I’m sure you have already heard the phrase ‘social distancing’ ad nauseam but experts believe it’s one of the most effective ways to slow the spread. You should avoid close contact and keep 6 feet between you and others if at all possible. This is because experts believe close contact is the main way the virus spreads.
Avoid Contact At All Cost
Handshakes, hugs, and other forms of contact are all ingrained within our culture. As difficult as it may be, it’s best to avoid any direct contact at this time. Experts even suggest against the elbow tap that has grown popular. Essentially, unless it’s absolutely necessary, just avoid touching other people.
Stay Inside
Realistically, the best way to beat the virus is to not come in contact with it at all. Before leaving your house ask yourself “is this absolutely necessary for my day-to-day survival?” If the answer is no, it’s best to avoid the trip altogether.
Wash Your Hands
Hand soap can potentially protect you from the virus if you have touched surfaces where it lives. Experts recommend washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Sing the Happy Birthday song twice or the chorus to one of your favorite pop songs for a mental benchmark.
Disinfect Often
Not only should you try to disinfect surfaces you interact with at least once a day, but you should be disinfecting almost anything and everything. Some experts even recommend disinfecting new groceries the second they enter your home. This virus can live on surfaces for prolonged periods of time and disinfecting can kill the virus if it’s made a home on one of your surfaces.
Check For Symptoms
It’s important to have an understanding of what the symptoms are of the disease so you can stay vigilant. It’s important to monitor not only your own health but the others around you as well. As unfair as it may seem, it’s best to avoid any type of in-person interaction with someone exhibiting symptoms.
What Coronavirus Symptoms?
One of the best ways to stay prepared is to stay aware. Knowing the symptoms can help you avoid people who may have the virus or can help you take the necessary steps if you feel as though you may have contracted the virus. Here are some of the symptoms you may experience:
- Tiredness
- Body aches
- Dry Cough
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a doctor you trust ASAP. Certain symptoms such as shortness of breath may require immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, try not to panic and keep in mind that 80% of people recover from the disease without ever needing special treatment.
What If You Feel Symptoms?
If you feel symptoms, have been exposed to the virus or have tested positive for COVID-19, you now have a responsibility to try and protect the rest of your community. It’s best to take the proper measures immediately to ensure your health is being taken care of and you’re not spreading the disease. Here are some of the actions you need to take:
- Consult with a doctor and get tested if possible
- Avoid work, school, public areas or social gatherings
- Stay inside as much as possible
- Avoid ALL forms of public transportation
- If living with family, stay in a separate area in the house and use a separate bathroom if possible
Following these measures will go a long way in helping prevent the spread of this disease. It’s important to remember we’re all on the same team with this one and everyone will need to play their role so we can beat this. Give us a call to get more information on how we are keeping the virus at bay in our office.
Did you know Chiropractic care can help treat chronic back pain, sports injuries, and auto accidents?
Get in touch with Dr. Dee at Healing Hands Chiropractic today for an initial consultation!
